ETH Zurich Academic Calendar

The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH Zurich), one of the leading universities in Europe, operates on a semester-based academic calendar. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the Autumn Semester, typically running from mid-September to late December, and the Spring Semester, generally spanning from mid-February to late May. A notable feature of ETH Zurich’s calendar is the inclusion of session breaks and examination periods immediately following each semester, allowing students to focus on assessments without overlapping coursework. Additionally, the university incorporates extended breaks, such as the winter holiday period, aligning with regional traditions in Switzerland.

• Autumn Semester Start: September 15, 2025 (classes begin for the academic year).
• Autumn Semester End: December 20, 2025 (followed by end-of-semester exams in January 2026).
• Winter Break: December 21, 2025 – January 5, 2026 (includes Christmas and New Year holidays).
• Spring Semester Start: February 16, 2026 (classes resume after winter exams).
• Spring Semester End: May 29, 2026 (followed by summer exams in June 2026).
• Summer Break: July 1, 2026 – September 14, 2026 (extended break for research or internships).

• Application Opening: November 1, 2024 (start of application period for the 2025–2026 cycle).
• Regular Decision Deadline: December 15, 2024 (final date for most undergraduate programs, including international applicants).
• Admission Decisions Released: March–April 2025 (notifications typically sent in this window).
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: May 1, 2025 (deadline to accept admission offer and pay enrollment fees).
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: February 15, 2025 (for scholarships or funding, especially for international students).

ETH Zurich’s academic calendar aligns closely with other European universities, particularly in Switzerland and neighboring countries, with semesters structured around major public holidays like Christmas and Easter. This scheduling offers predictability for students planning travel or family visits. For international students, the extended summer break provides flexibility for internships or returning home, while the clear delineation of exam periods supports focused academic preparation. It should be noted that specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns at ETH Zurich and may be subject to change. Students are encouraged to consult official university communications for the most accurate and updated information.